Learning To Speak In Alzheimer's Language
By Beverly Moore

Question: How does one learn to speak Alzheimer’s?

Answer: This is a new year; a time for change. If you are caring for someone with dementia, it is the perfect time to learn how to speak Alzheimer’s. You develop a pattern of talking that is hard to change, but the rewards will be worth it. You will create calm and promote success for them. Your relationship with them will be enhanced by keeping in mind the changes dementia causes.

To ‘speak Alzheimer’s’ means that you must relate with them from their reality, understanding that they absorb and understand what is said slower, process it slower, have difficulty retaining what is said, and cannot retrieve information easily or at all. Their successful inclusion in family life depends on you, the care partner.

The following guidelines will help you get started.

• Identify yourself by name. “Hi mom, it’s me, Joan.”

• Start off with easy social talk. Smiles also do wonders to relax a person.

• Wait. Give your full attention. Concentration is hard now.

• Maintain the attention with consistent eye contact throughout the conversation.

• Speak slowly and simply, in a normal tone of voice.

• Avoid chatty talk. Remember about attention and concentration?

• Stay on one subject at a time. Avoid switching subjects.

• Avoid long explanations and use of logic and reasoning.

• Go slowly at a task, taking one step at a time.

• Repeat instructions or information as needed.

• Apologize when you’ve expected too much or been rushed.

• In everything, provide them with a feeling of purpose and value.

Next Month: How can I have a good visit with someone afflicted with dementia?

About The Author
Beverly is owner of Alzheimer Coaching Services. She offers coaching to understand dementia and to learn to accommodate the person through habilitation methods. Her company is located in Quincy and you may reach her at (617) 233-1145, or www.alzheimercoachingservices.com.